I’ve had a front row seat to motherhood for over a decade as a photographer and mom myself. I’ve enjoyed every second of watching new mothers, seasoned veterans and grandmothers coax their children into beautiful photos. During it all, I’ve quietly taken mental notes for my own parenting skills. Here are just a few of the Mom insights I’ve witnessed.
- Patience Is Everything This is often the hardest, but I marvel at moms who keep a soft voice and gently explain why you shouldn’t argue with your sister, jump on Dad or run into the fountain. Even if they are screaming inside, they never show it.
- Balance Is a Ninja Skill You have the snacks, the wipes, the water bottle, a change of clothes if needed, plans for what’s next, and you’re still in the moment.
- Sometimes Being a Mom Makes You Invisible Every Mom is orchestrating a three-ring circus like a pro without their name on the marquee. I see you Mom, you are a boss!
- Modeling Self-love Is a Gift to your Child There is a beauty in letting go of insecurities, managing your stress, taking time for yourself and letting your kids see the Mom they want to remember in photos.
- You’ve Got to Have a Sense of Humor Those sticky hands, mismatched socks, writhing toddlers and unruly siblings. When things go haywire, it’s the moms that can laugh it off that I admire the most.
- Moms Need Moms Talking it out, laughing over shared experiences and sharing advice is a necessity to Mom survival.
- Letting Go of Perfection Sometimes kids lose a tooth before a photo shoot, scrape a knee or spill on that crisp white dress. When a Mom can shrug and move on, the pictures reflect their love for their kids just as they are.
- Being Present This is one of the hardest things to do in our hurried lives. Fitting in moments for photos is no exception. When a mom stops all the outside pressures of life and is present with them, kids notice that, love it and thrive on it!
Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing Moms I know and have photographed! You have my unwavering respect!
